Abstract

Can Americans who join terrorist organizations and fight against United States troops be charged with treason? Does the January 6th riot in Washington D.C. constitute “levying war”? Despite ongoing acts of levying war, and providing aid and comfort to enemies, the United States has not had a treason conviction since the 1950's. Courts and prosecutors actively avoid the charge, leading to a substantial lack of case law and legal guidance. Today, legal scholars disagree on how the Treason Clause should be applied. In this thesis, I discuss the disappearance of treason, and analyze opposing views on how the treason charge should be utilized in the twenty-first century. Specifically, I argue that treason holds significant constitutional importance, and should return as a viable charge in criminal law.

Thesis Completion

2021

Semester

Fall

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Patrick, Carlton

Degree

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

College

College of Community Innovation and Education

Department

Legal Studies

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

12-1-2021

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